BGOV OnPoint: Counter-Drone Powers, Market Demand Scale Up

Lawmakers extended military and law enforcement authorities for countering uncrewed aircraft systems operating in US airspace as drone threats persist.

The fiscal 2026 national defense authorization (Public Law 119-60; BGOV Bill Analysis: FY2026 Defense Authorization Agreement) provides more options for Pentagon leaders, civilian federal agencies, and state and local governments to defend against what President Donald Trump has described as the weaponization of the technology by criminals, terrorists, and hostile foreign actors.

It extends through fiscal 2031 the Homeland Security and Justice departments’ authorities to protect high-risk and secure locations from drones. The measure also addresses Energy ...